OCRA and the Okehampton Air Cadets are the latest organisations to benefit from the town council's grant aid scheme.

Both organisations were granted the maximum £500 on offer at the council's latest policy and resources meeting. OCRA will use the money to help fund the annual fitness festival, which runs this year from July 6 to July 14. The air cadets will use their £500 to buy new classroom equipment, including a laptop, lamp and projector.

Working with local clubs, instructors and facilities, OCRA is working hard to create a diverse programme for children, young people and adults alike.

Each year the sports festival has a wide range of have-a-go sessions and competitions for people to take part in. The main 'Sporting Sunday' sees Simmons Park bustle with activities and fun, attracting hundreds of people each year.

OCRA applied for £1,000, but the council's grant aid regulations restrict them to a £500 donation per organisation.

Cllr Jan Goffey said: 'I am fully supportive of what OCRA do, and they provide a hell of a lot for the town. But it would be a mixed message to other community groups if we were to give them any more than the full amount of £500.'

The air cadets offers a wide range of activities for youngsters aged 13 to 20, including flying and gliding, sports, adventure training and the chance to gain a number of qualifications.

The group is also active in the community, taking part in the Rotary May Fair, Okehampton Carnival, Okehampton Show and the annual mayoral parade.

Cllr Christine Marsh said: 'The air cadets don't ever ask us for very much, and always turn up for our parades. They also do a lot of voluntary work in the town, and I would be very happy to endorse their application.'

At the beginning of this financial year, the council allocated £12,000 to be distributed to organisations and charities benefitting the community. Councillors regularly review grant applications, and make an effort to spread the money as fairly and wisely as possible.

The council is keen to invite applications for next year's funding from organisations both big and small, in an effort to support as many people in Okehampton as possible.

For more information, contact the town hall on 01837 53179.